QUEENS Park Rangers manager Ian Holloway has been in contact with Droylsden skipper Carl Holmes and expressed an interest in signing him.

The Nationwide League club, who were top flight regulars throughout the seventies and eighties but last season were relegated into the second division, have fallen on harder times of late and were hoping to snap up Holmes for nothing.

However, as Holmes reveals, he is still under contract to Dave Pace's side.

"I was shocked when Ian Holloway rang the other night," said the 26-year-old midfielder, "but I think he was under the impression that my contract had run out already.

"But I told him I still had a year to run, so he is due to speak to Mr Pace about the situation."

Holmes added: "Apparently a coaching friend of Holloway's from Crewe Alexandra recommended me because he watched me a few times last season.

"It's nice to be linked with these clubs obviously, and it would be great to get back into the full time arena as I've tasted it before when spending two years as a junior at Stockport County.

"But we'll see what transpires as I have a girlfriend and young son to consider also."

Droylsden chairman and manager Pace said: "I'm open to offers for Carl at the moment, and if anyone approaches me with a fee then I'm all ears.

"I have had a few inquiries for him," he added, but wouldn't say if Rangers had been in touch as yet.

Among other sides known to be interested in Holmes are Altrincham and Northwich Victoria.

Pace meanwhile, has expressed his disappointment at his side missing out on a game on the opening Saturday of next season.

The UniBond premier division fixtures were announced on Tuesday, with the Bloods being the odd team out on Saturday, August 18.

On Tuesday, August 21, they kick off with a home game against Colwyn Bay, while on the Saturday, August 25, Droylsden are at home to Barrow.